Whether you are building a house from the ground up or doing an addition or remodel of your existing home, you might want to consider hiring an architect. This will be the best way to design and build your dream successfully.
In this article, we will explain how you can get started with an architect to see your dream build come to fruition.
What is an Architect?
An architect designs and usually oversees the construction of buildings/structures. They have at least a bachelor’s degree, if not a master’s, in architecture design and have completed a 3-year internship which closes with a multi-day exam. When an architect draws a set of plans, they must include their license number. They can be held responsible for the structural integrity of their projects.
How Much Can It Cost?
Fees vary depending on several different factors, including project type and location. In some cases, fees are hourly, ranging from around $50 to $200+, depending on experience. However, they may also be based on the construction costs, usually about 10%+. In some cases, the fee is a combination of the two. Often, an architect will have a flat fee for drawing up a set of permitting plans.
Benefits of Working with an Architect
An architect will work with you to design your home to meet your needs, lifestyle, and local building codes. If you plan to build a home from scratch or alter your house’s current footprint, local building codes may require that an architect sign off on the plans before construction. You may want to check your local building codes to be sure.
While it may seem like it’s a bit costly, there are several benefits of working with an architect, including:
- Ensuring that the building meets your current and future needs
- Designing the spaces of the house for specific needs
- Anticipating obstacles or challenges of the project and offering early intervention to save you money in the long run
- Maximizing energy efficiency to save money on your future utilities
- Designing the home with high-quality air, light, and sound, which improves the health and comfort of you and your family
Tips for Working with an Architect
It is essential to choose an experienced, knowledgeable architect, identify your goals for the project, clearly communicate, and respect their expertise, to see your dream home come to fruition.
Clearly Identify Your Goals and Budget for the Project
Before you search for an architect, you must understand your wants and needs. You will want to consider both your current and potential future needs. Take some time to research various floor plans and images to help the architect understand your expectations for the project.
Additionally, it’s important to have a realistic budget for your project. If you can provide the architect with a practical budget and design goals, your job is more likely to be successful.
Tips for Interviewing a Potential Architect
The first step is to choose your architect. You will be working closely with your architect throughout the process. Therefore, it is essential that you are comfortable with them and that you trust their professional opinions. Here are a few questions to ask when interviewing potential candidates:
- Do you have the knowledge and expertise to complete my project?
- Can you provide recommendations/reviews from past clients?
- Do you understand current market trends/construction techniques?
- What is your record of delivering projects within or under budget?
- Do you believe it’s possible to meet my goals within my budget?
- How often do you visit the worksite?
- What is your fee, and what is your fee timeline for project delivery?
Successfully Communicate with Your Architect
Once you have chosen an architect for your project, it’s critical to establish a good working relationship—which depends primarily on communication. You must explain your wants and needs for your home thoroughly. Then, you must be willing to listen to their professional opinions on the best ways to meet your goals and remain within your budget.
However, it is the contractor’s responsibility to quote the project. Therefore, the architect must be able to successfully communicate your needs, goals, budget, and any other information they gain during their meetings with you. They must also be able to come back to you with input from the contractor.
As the project moves forward, it’s crucial that the architect immediately notify you when a choice exceeds your budget. The best way to ensure you stay within budget is to respect their expertise.
Those involved in the project’s building must be included in the line of communication to ensure the successful completion of the project. This keeps everyone on the same page from start to finish.
Respect the Building and Construction Knowledge of the Architect
If you want to stay within your budget and still meet your needs and goals, you must respect what your architect has to say. They have been in the industry and have an in-depth understanding of building and construction.
Their knowledge will ensure compliance with local building codes and other requirements for building projects.
Your architect can help you choose the most advanced energy-efficient features and systems, disaster resistance, healthy indoor air quality, and more.
Get Started Hiring Your Architect Today
Working with a professional is essential if you want to build a home from the ground up, add to your existing home, or complete a full remodel. An architect can help you make your dreams come to fruition. They have the knowledge and expertise of the industry to help you reach your goals and keep you within budget.
However, to ensure that you get what you want, it’s necessary to do your research and find an architect that you can work with.
If you’re interested in learning more, contact us today!
